ISLAMABAD (Staff Reporter)
As part of its annual October breast cancer awareness campaign, the Atomic Energy Cancer Hospital (AECH) NORI held a seminar titled “Importance of Early Cancer Detection and Breast Cancer Awareness in Women.”
The seminar aimed to educate the public on the crucial need for early diagnosis and awareness, particularly among women. The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) is at the forefront of the national fight against cancer, operating a vast network of 20 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals across the country. These hospitals diagnose and treat over 46,000 new cancer patients annually and conduct nearly one million diagnostic and treatment procedures every year, serving not only Pakistani patients but also those from neighboring countries.
Addressing the seminar, NORI Hospital Director Dr. Humera Mahmood showcased the hospital’s advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, highlighting state-of-the-art technologies including PET-CT, SPECT-CT, cyclotron, linear accelerators, CyberKnife, brachytherapy units, and modern MRI, CT scan, and digital X-ray systems. She emphasized that PAEC cancer hospitals handle approximately 80% of Pakistan’s cancer patient load, providing either free or low-cost services, supported by welfare societies and organizations like Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal.
In 2023, NORI Hospital was recognized as an Anchor Centre under the IAEA’s “Rays of Hope” initiative for its significant contributions to cancer care. The hospital now also plays a regional role in training medical professionals and is actively involved in several IAEA projects.
Prominent medical experts from NORI, including Dr. Sadaf Tufail Butt (Head of Radiology) and Dr. Sadia Madiha Shabbir (Oncology Department), spoke on the importance of prevention and early detection of breast cancer. They stressed that a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, regular self-examination, and timely medical check-ups can significantly reduce the risk and lead to successful treatment outcomes.
The event also celebrated cancer survivors, honoring them as “Champions.” Several breast cancer survivors shared their personal journeys and expressed gratitude for the compassionate and professional care provided by NORI’s staff.
The seminar concluded with an awareness walk, which saw participation from healthcare professionals, students, members of the Pakistan Girl Guides Association, and individuals from various walks of life.
To expand cancer treatment accessibility, PAEC will soon inaugurate its 21st cancer hospital, CENOR, in Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, aiming to serve remote and underserved regions.